On the back of news that a 2026 update for the Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 is headed down under in the coming months, we jumped behind the wheel of the 2025 version to see just where it sits in a shrinking corner of the automotive landscape.
In a market increasingly dominated by downsized turbocharged engines and electrification, Chevrolet has stayed true to the traditional full-size American pickup formula, pairing serious off-road hardware with a naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8.
Finished in Cypress Grey, the ZR2 presents a purposeful presence. The dark metallic paint complements the truck’s blacked-out exterior details, including a gloss black grille, black fender flares, black beltline mouldings and black door handles.
Red recovery hooks provide a contrasting splash of colour while hinting at the vehicle’s off road intent. Chevrolet hasn’t designed the ZR2 as a styling exercise though. A unique three-piece steel front bumper helps deliver a 31.8-degree approach angle, for example.
The suspension rides 68mm higher than a standard Silverado. The wheel arches are filled by 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory mud-terrain tyres mounted on 18-inch gloss black alloy wheels, reinforcing the truck’s capability-focused mission.
Ground clearance stands at 296mm, while front and rear electronic locking differentials, skid plates and hill descent control round out a comprehensive off road package. At the rear, the Silverado combines practicality with durability.
The tray measures 1.7m in length and features 12 tie-down points within its roll-formed high-strength steel construction. A power-down tailgate adds convenience, while hidden dual exhaust outlets maintain a clean appearance.
The centre piece of the Silverado ZR2 is undoubtedly its 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8. Producing 313kW and 624Nm, the engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case.
It offers 2WD High, 4WD Auto, 4WD High, 4WD Low and Crawl Mode. With key rivals moving to turbocharged six-cylinder powertrains, the Silverado stands out as the last V8-powered contender in the segment.
For many buyers, that traditional V8 character will be a significant part of the appeal. The ZR2’s off road credentials extend well beyond its engine. Chevrolet has equipped the truck with Multimatic DSSV (dynamic suspension spool valve) dampers.
These feature a three-spool-valve, three-chamber design. In terms of driving experience, the setup delivers impressive wheel control off road, while remaining composed and comfortable on sealed surfaces.
Whether tackling corrugations, rocky trails, water crossings or steep inclines, the combination of suspension, locking differentials and dedicated off road modes gives the Silverado remarkable capability. And all before you even climb inside.
You’ll literally need to do that, particularly given the absence of side steps. Once inside though, the cabin feels modern and well-equipped, with a 13.4-inch touchscreen front and centre – as it were.
It offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Google Built-In and Amazon Alexa integration. Ahead of the driver sits a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, while heated and ventilated leather-trimmed front seats are a standout.
Dual-zone climate control, wireless charging and a seven-speaker Bose audio system add everyday comfort. Rear-seat accommodation is outstanding, with the crew cab layout providing generous passenger space.
The Silverado ZR2 is rated to tow up to 4,500kg braked and 750kg unbraked, with a payload of 750kg and a gross combination mass of 6,851kg. However, buyers intending to tow at the maximum limit should pay close attention to payload calculations and down ball weight.
Payload capacity drops substantially when towing at full freight. Supporting its towing abilities is an extensive suite of trailering technology, including profiles, integrated brake controller functions, light checks, GCM alerts and up to 13 camera views.
That includes an underbody camera and invisible trailer mode. Despite its size, the Silverado proves surprisingly civilised on the road too. The suspension effectively absorbs corrugations, and the V8 delivers effortless performance.
The 10-speed transmission keeps the powertrain operating smoothly. Fuel consumption is officially rated at 12.2-litres/100km, although real-world expectations are closer to the mid-13-litres/100km range around town and approximately 15-litres at full noise.
The upside is that the engine runs on 91 RON regular unleaded fuel. Priced at $141,500 plus on-roads, the Silverado ZR2 sits around $11,000 above the LTZ Premium. Buyers who spend their lives on sealed roads may find the latter a more rational choice.
Those seeking genuine off road capability however, will appreciate the ZR2’s extensive hardware package and impressive real world performance. While it’s essentially big, thirsty and expensive, it’s one of just a few vehicles with naturally aspirated V8 power.
Combine that with serious factory-backed off road capability and it remains a distinctive and compelling option. You can find out more on the GM Specialty Vehicles website, or by talking to your local dealership.
To get a low rate finance quote, talk to Australia’s best reviewed car finance broker; Credit One. To see a great range of vehicles for sale, check out OnlyCars.com.au.
Our test vehicle was provided by GM Specialty Vehicles for independent review purposes. Exhaust Notes Australia has not been paid to review this vehicle. Images supplied.
